Gefell M295 Stereo Microphone Pair - Used  From Gefell

M294 / M295 large diaphragm 1" cardioid condenser:

The Gefell M294, like the M295, is a precision cardioid condenser pencil microphone with an extended bandwidth for the utmost in natural sound reproduction. Derived from Gefell's test, measurement and instrumentation division, the M295 employs a pure 0.8 micron nickel diaphragm in a ceramic housing for temperature-stable performance. The extremely low membrane distortion of the pure nickel diaphragm even when subjected to extreme sound pressure levels assures a colour-free reproduction of the source.

Design Features

Following the nomenclature used in the world of test, measurement and instrumentation, the M295 is referred to as 1" microphone. This designates the outside physical diameter of the capsule head. In fact, the Gefell M295 employs a large hand-stretched 19mm pure nickel diaphragm. The M295's ultra-thin 0.8micron membrane provides exceptional precision and articulation. A ceramic capsule housing provides incomparable stability thus ensuring the microphone's performance remains stable as temperatures change and ballistic pressures vary. Ceramics have the distinct advantage over metals whereby they do not expand or contract when submitted to temperature drift. Furthermore, a proprietary Teflon treated back-plate electrode provides a protective layer that ensures the membrane will not "bottom out" when subjected to extreme sound pressure levels. This allows the M295 to be used in many applications that were previously impractical or simply impossible.

The capsule housing is mounted on a unique shock-mounted pedestal that both serves in defining the highly controlled cardioid pattern while also refracting troublesome body reflections away from the capsule. Careful control of air molecule vibrations is critical to achieving pristine reproduction. As such, by reducing modal interaction, phase cancellation is minimized. This of course is most noticeable at higher frequencies where precise harmonic detail is desired.

There are two on-mic controls, located mid-way down the body stem in a recessed control zone. A 10dB pre-attenuation switch allows the M295 to be used in extreme sound pressure fields where levels may reach 143dB. Also, a low frequency roll-off (-15dB@60Hz) is provided to allow the M295 to be used for close micing when proximity build may need to be reduced at the source.

The capsule amplifier is a proprietary low-noise design that features a balanced symmetrical output. The linear performance extends from 5Hz to 100kHz and is capable of extreme sound pressures without flinching.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Using the mics

The M295 features a simple yet elegant body design. This of course has the distinct advantage of reduced "vortex" around the mic while also making placement easy in tight spaces. The M295 is connected using a 3-pin XLR cable following the AES standard and need only 48V phantom powering from a mic pre-amp of console.

For applications where vibration-borne noise may be encountered, using the optional EA21 elastic suspension is recommended. This basket style suspension features a unique "clamp" that secures the microphone for unrestricted positioning.

The direction for maximum sensitivity is axial while these microphones enjoy smooth rendering of the upper response as one transitions off-axis to the sides. This is of particular benefit when recording in the diffuse field where capturing the ambiance is a vital part of the desired outcome.

For close micing such as speech or solo voice, the use of either the optional W20 windscreen or a pop-filter is recommended. For a natural representation, engaging the low-frequency roll-off will reduce the proximity build and over-emphasis of the bass spectrum.

Gefell M294 mid and far field cardioid

The M294 is corrected for mid to far field recording, and is characterized with an emphasized presence peak in the 8kHz region. This particular voicing allows the engineer to aim the microphone at the source capturing greater detail, clarity and depth while capturing the diffuse sound field.

Gefell M295 near-field cardioid The M925 is corrected for near and mid field recording, and is characterized with a virtually linear upper stratum with only a very slight presence-rise, while the low-frequency content is naturally attenuated to compensate for proximity-build. This makes the M295 particularly well suited for close micing of solo instruments where the most natural rendering is desired.

Gefell M296 omnidirectional

The M296 features a linear response that extends to 20kHz with a slight presence rise to correct for use in the diffuse field. The natural and exceptionally detailed response of the M296 makes it ideal for all types of recording where capturing the natural sound or the instrument and the natural ambience is desired.

Gefell M296S test, measurement and instrumentationThe M296S transitions from the "musical" characteristics that are voiced in the previous models to becoming a true measurement microphone. The Gefell 296S employs a 0.4micron ultra-thin, pure nickel diaphragm to assure absolute flat response both on and off axis, adhering to the DIN-EN 60.651 Class-2 criteria for sound level meters.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interpretation

The Gefell M294, M295 and M296 condenser microphones offer the superior characteristics of a pure large nickel diaphragm resulting in a natural yet brilliant tone. The low intrinsic noise and remarkable output distinguishes these microphones as the optimum choice for critical recording for orchestra, ensemble or solo instrument and voice.

These come standard in an attractive satin nickel finish and may be factory ordered with a distinctive yet visually "invisible" black housing for reduced visibility on stage. All microphones are hand made and individually tested in an anechoic chamber. Hand-selected, stereo-matched sets are may be factory ordered.